Turner Buildings, Herrick Street SW1

11 May 1941

By Caitlin Fritch

On 11 May 1941, at around 1.25am, City of Westminster ARP messages noted the catastrophic damage caused by a single 1,000lb high explosive bomb dropped on the Turner Buildings of the Millbank Estate in Herrick Street SW1. After passing right through the building (built 1898-1902), the bomb exploded on the original foundations of the early 19th century Millbank prison. Over half the Turner Buildings were demolished. The debris from the explosion was so great that police were forced to close off Herrick Street at both ends. Wardens initially reported that the debris had trapped over 15 people and had taken the lives of six others. Additional ambulances were required at the scene. While rescue workers attempted to free the trapped victims, they discovered the danger of water penetration to those trapped.

Thankfully, the police and rescue workers had an accurate census of everyone on the premises and knew where to dig. This helped them retrieve safely 20 people trapped in a surface shelter. Still, the high level of impact and debris had killed 25 people at the Turner Buildings and destroyed some 20 flats. The investigation into the incident remained open for two days following the explosion until the identity of 4 bodies could be established. City of Westminster records finally accounted for 32 casualties (25 of whom were confirmed as fatalities).

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